Sanchar Saathi Mandatory in All Phones: Full Story in 5 Key Points

Government Wants Sanchar Saathi Installed in Every Phone

The Government has instructed all smartphone makers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on every new device sold in India. It also wants the app pushed to older phones through software updates, ensuring the app remains visible, active, and cannot be removed or disabled by users. Companies must comply within 90 days and submit reports within 120 days.

Why the App Is Being Made Mandatory

According to the Government, the move is meant to protect users against rising telecom cyber threats, such as fake IMEI numbers and fraudulent mobile connections. The app is being promoted as a tool to block stolen phones, detect misuse, and improve telecom security.

What Sanchar Saathi Does

Sanchar Saathi is a government-developed mobile security platform. It enables citizens to:

• Block lost or stolen phones
• Check IMEI authenticity
• Identify how many mobile numbers are linked to their documents
• Report suspicious activity
• Support police in tracing device misuse

However, users have noticed the app seeks wide access permissions like call logs, camera, messages and network information, raising privacy concerns.

How the App Works Technically

The app connects phone IMEI details with CEIR – a central database of valid devices. When users report loss or theft, CEIR can block the device across all networks, making it unusable even with a new SIM. Government data says the system has already helped recover over 7 lakh phones, blocked 37 lakh stolen devices, and removed 3 crore fake connections.

Why the App Is Controversial

Many users see the mandate as intrusive because:

• The app is compulsory and cannot be deleted
• It demands access to sensitive data
• People fear it may act as a government surveillance tool

Critics compare it to policies in authoritarian states, arguing it may let authorities track calls, messages, and location without consent. This has triggered strong privacy fears and online backlash.